Arsalan Ali

The dry fruit industry in Gilgit-Baltistan possesses immense potential for growth and expansion. However, it also confronts significant challenges, including storage issues, logistical constraints, and the need for improved infrastructure, hindering its full realisation of success. A study conducted by Shamsher Ali, Assistant Professor at the Karakoram International University, Gilgit Baltistan, highlighted that the dry fruit industry in the GB region is not only a flourishing sector, but also a vital source of employment and economic growth for the local populace.

It stated that nestled within the region's favourable climatic conditions and fertile lands, this industry has become a beacon of hope, enabling agricultural promotion and improving livelihoods. It added that despite abundance of these delectable treasures, the lack of modern transportation infrastructure poses a significant hurdle to domestic trade.

The difficult terrain and remote location of fruit belts hinder investment in storage and processing facilities. Modern storage and processing facilities, such as cold storage units and controlled atmosphere chambers, can solve storage challenges in the dry fruit industry by preserving quality and prolonging shelf life, it added. Overcoming these logistical challenges is crucial for unlocking the industry's full potential and enabling wider distribution of these exquisite products.

According to a study, amidst these obstacles, the rise of e-commerce presents a glimmer of hope for GB's dry fruit industry. Online platforms have opened up new avenues for exploring the export potential. Embracing e-commerce can help overcome geographic barriers, expand market reach, and tap into the growing demand for healthy and natural snacks.

The study emphasised that collaboration with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) offers great potential for enhancing dry fruit production and overcoming existing barriers in the industry. By leveraging their expertise, resources, and networks, NGOs can facilitate innovation, sustainability, and equitable growth while empowering local farmers and processors through technical assistance, market linkages, and capacity building.

Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) has identified several major export markets for Pakistani dry fruits, including Germany, the Netherlands, the Maldives, Indonesia, China, the United States, United Arab Emirates, Afghanistan, Belgium, the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and South Africa. Data from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) shows a significant increase in the export of oil seeds, nuts, and kernels in recent years, indicating the growing global demand for these products.

According to data, the export value of oil seeds, nuts, and kernels in April 2023 amounted to $15.258 million, reflecting a significant increase of 78.15% compared to April 2022, when it stood at $8.565 million. During the first 10 months (July-April) of the current fiscal year (2022-23), the export value of oil seeds, nuts, and kernels totalled $182.161 million compared to $185.239 million during the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year, indicating a decline of 1.66%.

Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari, President of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in a recent statement, emphasised the immense revenue potential for the GB region through the export of almonds, walnuts, apricots, and cherries. With annual almond production exceeding 120,000 tons, Bakhtawari urged the government to provide complete support to private sector in boosting dry fruit exports to lucrative markets.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan-INP